By Chris Chikelue
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, has commenced activities marking its 35th anniversary and 2026 Press Week, with a call on journalists to uphold truth, professional responsibility and service to society.
The Chairman of the 2026 NUJ Press Week and Coral Anniversary Planning Committee, Comrade Francis Ekpone, made the call on Sept. 3 at a press conference at the Godwin Ezeemo International Conference Centre, Awka.
Ekpone said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the union’s 35 year history in the state and its contributions to the journalism profession and society.
He said the theme of the anniversary, “NUJ Anambra, 35 Years On: Reporting with Truth, Responsibility and Service,” underscored the importance of ethical and credible journalism.
According to him, journalists in Anambra have over the years contributed to holding institutions accountable, providing credible information, educating the public and highlighting issues affecting society.
He said the anniversary would also provide an opportunity to recognise past leaders, pioneers and stakeholders who contributed to the growth of the union.
Ekpone said the activities would include humanitarian visits to correctional centres, children’s homes and homes for the elderly on Sept. 4.
He said indoor games and a novelty football match between NUJ and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) would hold at the Paul University field, Awka, on Sept. 7.
According to him, the programme would continue on Sept. 8, with a facility visit to the business premises of industrialist, Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, in Anambra South.
He said a free medical outreach for NUJ members and a social evening with national and zonal officers would hold on Sept. 9.
Ekpone said the grand finale would hold on Sept. 10, at an event centre in Awka, featuring a keynote address, presentation of the 2026 Man of the Year Awards, Coral Anniversary celebration and presentation of the Prof. Chinyere Okunna Award for Ethical Journalism.
He said the Zonal Executive Council (ZEC) meeting would also take place as part of the grand finale activities, scheduled for 10 a.m.
According to him, the grand finale would be chaired by Comrade Churchill Okonkwo, while the Anglican Bishop of Amichi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ephraim Okechukwu Ikeakor, would deliver the keynote address.
He added that a rural outreach and thanksgiving service scheduled for Sept. 26 and 27 would conclude the anniversary programme.
Chris Chikelue is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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